Electric Vehicle Charging Station Signs: An Evaluation of Driver Comprehension and Perceived Risk

Abstract

As drivers continue to purchase electric vehicles, there is an increasing demand for electric vehicle charging stations and, consequently, signing for these stations. Previous research evaluated a sign which was recommended to the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD) team for addition to the MUTCD; however there remained concerns that drivers’ perceptions of electric vehicle charging stations signs had not been adequately addressed. The present research focused on driver comprehension and perceived risk of electric shock in regard to two electric vehicle charging station signs. Members of the driving public completed a computer-based survey which consisted of open-ended questions, rating tasks, and ranking tasks. Drivers did not necessarily associate a risk of electric shock with electric vehicle charging stations. In fact, nearly 100 percent reported that they would feel comfortable using a public electric vehicle charging station. When asked specifically about the risk of electric shock, statistically significant differences in sign alternatives arose only in the risk of electric shock implied by the sign. Further, drivers perceived the risk of shock from using an electric vehicle charging station as lower than many commonly used items which contain an electric charge (e.g., toaster, hair dryer, and extension cord). Given that both alternatives were well comprehended, either sign is suitable for use.